Does STI screening treat chlamydia?

Screening uses a sample such as urine or a swab to check for chlamydia. It may be offered when you have symptoms, after a sexual exposure, or as part of sexual health care. A positive result means a clinician can select appropriate treatment and discuss notifying recent partners. A negative result may need careful interpretation if testing happened soon after exposure or if a body site was not sampled.

Chlamydia can occur without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they may include unusual discharge, burning when urinating, pelvic or testicular pain, or bleeding after sex. Untreated infection can spread and cause complications, so a result should be followed by a clinical plan.

Arrange a consultation to discuss any positive result. Take the antibiotic exactly as prescribed and do not share it with another person. Avoid sex until the clinician says it is appropriate and partners have received advice, because infection can pass back and forth. Ask whether you need testing for other STIs and whether a repeat test or review is needed.

Do not use leftover antibiotics or rely on symptoms improving as proof that the infection has cleared. Keep the result private and secure, while giving healthcare staff accurate information about exposures, symptoms, pregnancy possibility, and allergies.

Seek prompt medical care for worsening pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, pain or swelling in a testicle, or feeling very unwell. If you may be pregnant and have a positive result or pelvic pain, contact a clinician promptly. Severe pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding needs urgent assessment.

Ask which sample was tested, when treatment should begin, how long to avoid sex, whether partners need assessment, and whether symptoms suggest another infection or complication.